The Story Didn't End When the Credits Rolled
You may have found her through the film, or 48 Hours, or Netflix. Here's what she's doing now — and how you can be part of it.
Who She Is
Christy Salters grew up in Mullens, West Virginia, a coal town, and became the most consequential woman in the history of her sport. Discovered by Don King. Nearly a decade undefeated. WBC world junior welterweight champion. The first female fighter on national television, on premium cable, on pay-per-view. The only female boxer ever to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated. In 2020 she became the first woman enshrined in the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
What Was Happening at the Same Time
For twenty years she was married to her trainer, Jim Martin. He controlled her career, her money, and her life. In 2010 he stabbed her repeatedly, shot her, and left her to die. She got out of the house and survived. He was convicted and sentenced to prison, where he died in November 2024.
What She Did Next
She founded Christy's Champs, a 501(c)(3) that supports survivors of domestic violence and family abuse — and their children — in what she calls the fight of their life. The organization funds gas cards, laptops and Start Over Bins, puts laptops in boxing gyms, runs backpack drives, visits safe houses, and helps survivors move into independent living. She works alongside domestic violence shelters to bring boxing, MMA and life-skills training to survivors and their kids.
She also speaks — to companies, campuses and conferences across the country — and every speaking fee she earns is donated to the nonprofit.
Where You've Seen the Story
Christy (2025 Feature Film)
Feature film starring Sydney Sweeney, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival.
Untold: Deal with the Devil (2021)
Netflix original docuseries detailing Christy's historic boxing career and survival story.
Fighting for Survival (2022 Memoir)
Christy's bestselling autobiography co-written with Hall of Fame sportswriter Ron Borges.
CBS 48 Hours (November 2025)
In-depth national investigative broadcast on Christy's life, advocacy, and survival.
Two Ways to Be Part of It
Fund a Fresh Start
$25 fills a gas tank. $250 builds a Start Over Bin. Every dollar empowers a survivor.
Give NowBring Her to Speak
Book Christy for your corporate, campus, or conference event. Speaking fees fund emergency shelter, gas cards, and the essentials survivors need to escape and rebuild.
Check AvailabilityIf You're In It Right Now
If any of this is describing your own life, there is help, and it is free and confidential. In immediate danger, call 911. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 800-799-7233.